Bruising in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different bruising patterns according to TCM theory
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Bruising, medically known as a contusion, is a common skin injury that results in a discoloration of the skin. Symptoms typically involve a change in skin color to blue, green, yellow, or purple following an impact or pressure that ruptures the blood vessels beneath the skin.
This leakage of blood into surrounding tissues leads to the visible discoloration. Bruises are generally caused by blunt force trauma. Sub-symptoms associated with bruising, like contusions, post-traumatic stasis, and sprains blood stasis, indicate varying degrees of tissue damage and Blood Stagnation beneath the skin surface.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views bruising as a manifestation of disrupted Qi and blood flow due to trauma. According to TCM, bruises result from the Stagnation of Blood, caused when an external force injures the blood vessels.
This view sees the Stagnation as an impediment to the smooth circulation of Qi and Blood, which is essential for health. TCM emphasizes the need to address this stagnation and restore the harmonious flow to heal the bruise effectively.
Herbal Formulas for Bruising
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address bruising